KUALA LUMPUR — The Malaysian contingent heading to the 2022 Asian Games in Hangzhou have been advised to minimise social media usage and maintain a laser-like focus leading up to the Games.
In the critical two weeks preceding the competition, Chef de Mission Datuk Chong Kim Fatt said athletes are urged to commit their undivided attention to training and optimising their performance.
He added that excessive engagement with social media platforms can be detrimental to athletes’ concentration and, more significantly, their mental health.
This is particularly true when athletes encounter overwhelming criticism or excessive praise from online audiences.
“We want to boost the spirit of our athletes to fight all the way for the country and go for gold. Don’t just go saying, ‘I’ll try my best, and see how it goes.’ Be ready to fight all the way.
“The main goal is to win medals on the court (not to increase followers on social media).
“We (the secretariat) will deal with all the problems that arise before the competition, (but) after entering the court, it is up to the athletes to determine the results,” he said after inspecting the training of the rhythmic gymnastics and gymnastics squads here, today.
Meanwhile, Kim Fatt said the national contingent was 99% ready to face the world’s second-largest multi-sport event from September 23 to October 8.
He said the cricket team would be the first to leave for Hangzhou on September 17, as the event was scheduled to begin two days later.
In terms of the organisation of the event, he said the accommodation facilities were top-notch, while halal food was also provided at the sports village at all times.
“The Chinese government doesn’t only want to organise the Games, but also wants to show the world the rapid development and progress of the country,” he said. — September 7, 2023